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Malacañang backs SolGen on Napoles by Alexis

romero Philstar.com

mANILA - the solicitor general is not acting as a lawyer for accused pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles when he sought her acquittal on the crime of serious illegal detention, malacañang said on thursday, feb. 16. Presidential spokesman ernesto Abella said solicitor General Jose Calida believes there were no grounds for holding Napoles liable for serious illegal detention. “he’s not lawyering for Napoles, I think. he’s just simply trying to correct what he thinks, what he sees, what he perceives is something that needs to be rectified,” Abella said in a press briefing. READY TO WALK? Photo taken on Jan. 20, 2016 When reminded that the illegal detention case is related to shows Janet Lim Napoles being escorted to the Napoles’ plunder charge since she was convicted of detaining Sandiganbayan for a hearing of her plunder case in Benhur Luy to prevent him from exposing the Priority Develconnection with the pork barrel scam Philstar.com photo by Michael Varcas PAGE A2

DATELINE

USA

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

Philippines to ask US for help to counter piracy in southern seas mANILA is planning to ask for Washington’s help in countering militants off the waters in the southern Philippines, the Department of Defense (DND) said on tuesday, february 7. In an interview with Agence france-Presse (AfP), Philippine Defense secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the country will ask the United states to conduct joint naval exercises across the sibutu Passage to guard it against pirate attacks. Located between northern malaysia and the southern Philippines, about 13,000 shipping vessels reportedly use the sibutu passage annually. According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the said maritime channel offers the fastest shipping routes between Australia and other manufacturing countries like China, Japan, and south Korea. Last month, the International maritime Bureau (ImB) said in its report that the waters off the southern Philippines have become ‘increasPAGE A4

USAID programs in PH continue despite anti-US tirades the United states Agency for International Development (UsAID) is continuing with its assistance programs with the Philippine government this year. this is despite President rodrigo Duterte’s previous pronouncements that the Philippines could survive without any assistance from the U.s. “We continue to have programs with them and no one has asked us to leave or to discontinue. We continue to work together,” Gloria steele, acting assistant administrator for UsAID’s Bureau for Asia, said, as quoted by inquirer. steele noted that the UsAID projects in the Philippines were “not aid per se” but rather, “a partnership.” “We have talked about continuing the partnership for growth but I believe they now call it, ‘Partnership for Growth with equity,’” steele remarked. PAGE A4

JUSTICE SECRETARY ATTENDS SENATE HEARING. Senator Alan Peter Cayetano (left) engages Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II in a tête–à–tête before the start of the Blue Ribbon Committee inquiry looking into the alleged bribery of government officials by Chinese gambling tycoon Jack Lam. Senate photo by Albert Calvelo

Duterte tells Trillanes: Prove bank PH Supreme Court affirms forfeiture accounts and I’ll resign immediately of Imelda Marcos’ jewelry set by leilA

B. sAlAverriA, nestor CorrAles Inquirer.net

Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV shows a document showing the alleged accumulated and unexplained wealth of President Rodrigo Duterte and his family amounting to P2.4 billion during a press conference at the Philippine Senate in Pasay City Thursday, February 16. Trillanes distributed a list bearing the alleged accounts of Davao City Mayor Sarah Duterte-Carpio and Sebastian Duterte. Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo

PresIDeNt rodrigo Duterte would resign “immediately” if sen. Antonio trillanes could prove his accusation that he had over P2 billion in various bank accounts. In a interview taped on thursday, feb. 16 at the presidential guest house in Panacan, Davao City, Duterte said: “this I can say: If trillanes can prove his allegations that I have amassed P2 million illegally, or if that bank account under my name has a total deposit at one time of even just half a billion, I will resign as president immediately.” earlier, trillanes challenged the President to make public his bank transactions to disprove he had P2.2 billion in three bank branches from 2006 to 2015. But the President said the accusation was “an old and rePAGE A2

by AJPress

the Philippine supreme Court (sC) has affirmed an earlier sandiganbayan ruling which orders the forfeiture of the third jewelry collection owned by former first Lady Imelda marcos. Also known as the “malacañang Collection,” the set is assessed be worth between $110,055 to $153,089, based on the evaluation of auction house Christie, manson and Woods Intl., Inc. in 1991. the high court rejected the petition for certiorari filed by Imelda and her daughter, Irene marcos-Araneta, the 21page decision authored by Chief Justice ma. Lourdes sereno said. the petition sought to reverse the anti-graft court’s 2014 finding that the jewelry collection was part of the marcos family’s ill-gotImelda Marcos ten wealth. the high court also denied the marthe sC said that the petitioners “failed to satisfactorily show that the coses’ claim that they were deprived of properties were lawfully acquired.” PAGE A2

Filipino designer on ‘Make America Great Again’ Jurists warn: Death violates Grammys gown: We have to support the president penalty PH’s int’l obligations by ChristinA

m. oriel

AJPress

WhILe most headlines about the 59th annual Grammy Awards are focusing on Adele’s “Album of the Year” win over Beyoncé, a relatively unknown singer was catapulted into the limelight for her bold red carpet look made by a filipino designer bearing a political message to support rather than resist President Donald trump. on sunday night, february 12, Joy Villa arrived in a white coat and subsequently took it off to reveal her navy blue gown with “make America Great Again” emblazoned on it, while “trUmP” in silver glitter was spelled out on the backside. Behind the statement piece is Andre soriano, a designer based in san Diego, who appeared on rihanna’s Bravo fashion reality show, “styled to rock” back in 2013. “the gown was more a message of love and moving this country forward,” Soriano, who currenty resides in San Diego, was first discovered on soriano said during an interview with the Rihanna’s Bravo fashion reality show, Asian Journal on monday, february 13. “I “Styled to Rock,” back in 2003. design for all types of human. I don’t really

by rosette

Adel

Philstar.com

Filipino designer Andre Soriano shared a photo of his “Make America Great Again” inspired creation for singer Joy Villa at the 59th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday night, February 12. On his Instagram account, Soriano wrote that the gown was “A Tribute [to] OUR President of The United States Of America.” Courtesy of Andre Soriano’s Instagram account

care — there are no races or barriers with creativity when it comes to dressing up PAGE A4

mANILA, Philippines — the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) warned the Philippines that it will violate international obligations once it revives death penalty. In a memorandum, the ICJ said the Philippines is a state party to the second optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political rights aiming to abolish death penalty. the group also cited the 1987 Constitution’s bill of rights. “the ICJ believes that if the Philippines adopts a law that re-imposes the death penalty, it will be in direct violation of its international obligations,” the ICJ memorandum read. “It (Philippines) is obliged under this international instrument not to execute anyone within its jurisdiction,” it added. the protocol effectively prohibits states from bringing back death penalty once it has been abolished in domestic laws. emerlynne Gil, the ICJ’s senior international legal adviser for southeast PAGE A2

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From the Front Page

Duterte tells Trillanes: Prove bank...

PAGE A1 hashed issue.” “I have answered this allegation before I became president,” he said, alluding to the campaign period during which Trillanes first made the accusation. “The people have already, they placed me in the office with 16 million votes.” He told the senator to go to court and charge him rather than

talking to media. “I would advise Trillanes to go to court and file the proper case against me and advise him further to stop opening his mouth if he has nothing to say anyway,” he added. ‘Lucrative business’ He has also belittled Trillanes’s dare for him to resign. The senator, he pointed out, is

on his last term and would have no more political career to speak of after the end of his term. This would explain his penchant for always daring the President to resign, he said. “Trillanes is already on his last term and will have nothing to lose if he resigns from office, which explains his penchant for always daring President[s] to resign,” he said. Trillanes, he added, also had his own illicit activities. “It is known in the Senate that Trillanes uses his office to ask for retainers and that this has become a lucrative business for him,” he said. Wife got money from her businesses The President defended his common-law wife, Honeylet Avanceña, whom Trillanes also accused of having millions deposited in the bank. “This is amusing how Trillanes came up with his accounting,” Duterte said. “He even included day-to-day transactions of my partner Honeylet. This just shows his ignorance with regards to banking business.” He said Honeylet worked hard for her money, unlike the senator whom he described as merely “ambitious.” “Trillanes, alam mo, iyang si Honeylet, started her doughnut business 18 years ago,” Duterte said. “She supplies meat sa five malls dito sa Davao. Siya yung nagsu-supply ng karne ng baboy.” (“You know, Trillanes, Honeylet started her doughnut business 18 years ago. She supplies meat to five mall here in Davao. She’s supplies them with pork.”) “Diyan kalaki ang pera ng babaeng yan – matiyaga, hindi kagaya mo ambisyoso,” Duterte added. “My mutiny-mutiny ka pa wala ka palang bayag. Tapos taas kaagad ng kamay pagdating ng pulis. Nakakahiya ka, sa totoo lang. Kung pamilya mo gutom noon o ngayon huwag mo kaming isali. Hindi kami kasing malas sa pamilya mo. Hindi kami mahirap, really. Tatay ko governer noon. May iniwan sa amin. Ikaw anong iniwan sa’yo? Hangin pati yabang. Tulisan ka sa totoo lang,” he added. (“That’s how that woman got so much money. She’s patient, unlike you – you’re ambitious. You dare

Malacañang backs SolGen on...

PAGE A1 opment Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel scam, Abella said, “I don’t know if they had a conversation regarding that, but the President trusts his alter ego’s decision.” Napoles is currently detained at the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City after being convicted of the serious illegal detention case filed by Luy, her nephew and former employee, who became the primary state witness in the pork barrel scam. Abella also stressed Calida’s move does not change Duterte’s stance against corruption. He noted the plunder and illegal detention charges are “separate items.” Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo is confident that Napoles’ acquittal on her illegal detention case would not affect the proceedings on her plunder charges. Panelo also denied that the administration is going soft on Napoles but is just upholding the rule of law. Abella likewise belied notions that Duterte’s ties with Napoles’ lawyers had prodded the solicitor general to seek her acquittal. “I think that’s what exactly they are: speculations,” he said. “I don’t have the imagination to go into that area – connections,” Abella said. Lanee Cui-David, a former lawyer of Napoles, has been appointed deputy commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue. She and her husband Stephen are graduates of the San Beda College of Law, where Duterte also finished his law degree. ‘Government of criminals’ Sen. Leila de Lima assailed Calida’s move, saying the country might as well “dissolve its justice system” if the solicitor general would succeed in freeing Napoles. De Lima, a critic of the Duterte administration and who was justice secretary when the PDAF scam broke out and Napoles was jailed, said it would be best to

declare this “government a government of criminals where the innocent are imprisoned and the criminals liberated.” In a statement, De Lima said the administration now appears to be bent on taking the side of every high-profile crook and scoundrel the past administration was able to jail. “I cannot imagine what justification the OSG (Office of the Solicitor General) has come up with this time in order to sabotage the criminal conviction the DOJ (Department of Justice) has successfully secured in the past administration,” De Lima said. “From the ‘tribune of the people’ to the ‘tribune of convicted criminals,’ this is probably the lowest point ever that the OSG has reached in its years of existence,” she added. De Lima said it should be determined if the OSG consulted with the DOJ on the issue because if it did not, then this could be a very serious matter. She aired her concern that the PDAF cases could be affected by this move by the OSG. “Of course this is a different case, this is serious illegal detention but the entire PDAF scam started with this illegal detention,” De Lima said. With the move of the OSG, De Lima said that it would not be farfetched to think that the next persons to be set free would be the convicted drug lords who testified against her. “Under these circumstances, it is indeed an honor to be imprisoned under this regime of criminal coddlers,” she said. Manipulation But Calida sees manipulation in the serious illegal detention case filed against Napoles that sent her behind bars in April 2015. “Even Benhur (Luy) is saying he was not detained. So what is the implication there? Somebody manipulated to jail Napoles. Now, why did they do it?” Calida asked. Luy was allegedly detained at a retreat house in Makati City

so he could not testify on the anomalies involving the misuse of PDAF by funneling the money though bogus non-government organizations (NGOs). Napoles supposedly masterminded the scheme in connivance with lawmakers and other government officials. Luy later became a state witness in the PDAF cases filed against Napoles and many other personalities allegedly involved in the scam. Calida pointed out someone wanted to put Napoles behind bars probably to stop her from spilling the beans on her allegedly anomalous transactions with high-ranking government officials. “Because if you are in detention, your life is at risk,” Calida said. Calida said his office would look into the motives of the people who made Napoles suffer in jail for a crime she did not commit. He, however, could not say yet who these people are. He said the DOJ first dismissed the case filed against Napoles but this was later reversed by De Lima. The OSG filed a 10-page manifestation before the Court of Appeals (CA) after it was asked to review and assess the serious illegal detention case of Napoles. In the manifestation, the OSG said there were instances that would show Luy was not illegally detained or deprived of his freedom. But Calida said their manifestation does not mean to acquit Napoles, but only to inform the CA of their opinion on the case. He also downplayed criticisms that Duterte ordered him to review the case of Napoles. “President Duterte does not instruct his Cabinet members and officers what to do,” he said. He also said the government has no deal with the camp of Napoles. (With reports from Marvin Sy, Robertzon Ramirez, Elizabeth Marcelo/Philstar.com)

PAGE A4

UP FOR AUCTION. An official from the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) shows a tiara, seized from a a set of jewellery collection of former first lady Imelda Marcos, at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The third jewelry collection known as the “Malacañang Collection,” which based on the Sandiganbayan decision is assessed to be worth from $110,055 to $153,089, is composed of smaller and less expensive pieces that the Marcoses left behind when they fled during the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. Inquirer.net photo by Marianne Bermudez

PH Supreme Court affirms forfeiture of... PAGE A1

due process and were not given the opportunity to prove that they acquired the jewelry legally. “This allegation cannot be given credence for being utterly baseless,” it said. The high court added that it has also found “no reversible error in the ruling of the Sandiganbayan” over the seized jewelry collection. “The Sandiganbayan correctly held that the forfeiture was justified and that the Malacanang Collection was subject to forfeiture,” it said. The “Malacañang Collection” was left behind by the family of late and former President Ferdinand Marcos at the presidential

palace when they fled outside the country after the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986. The said collection is presently kept inside vaults of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, together with the Roumeliotes and Hawaii collections, which were both seized back in 1986. Diamond-studded tiaras, a golden belt with a diamond buckle, necklaces, brooches, earrings, belts and other gems including a pink diamond are reportedly in the set, according to Japan Times. “We reiterate what we have already stated initially in Republic v. Sandiganbayan, and subsequently in Marcos v. Republic: that ‘Whenever any public officer

or employee has acquired during his incumbency an amount of property which is manifestly out of proportion to his salary as such public officer or employee and to his other lawful income and the income from legitimately acquired property, said property shall be presumed prima facie to have been unlawfully acquired,’” the court said. Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the current administration of President Rodrigo Duterte will respect the high court’s ruling. “I don’t know if we’re going to selling it but we will abide by the decision that it belongs to the government,” Abella told reporters.

Jurists warn: Death penalty violates... PAGE A1 Asia, said the Philippines cannot withdraw from Second Optional Protocol, which has no denunciation or withdrawal clause. The UN Human Rights Committee has explained that a denunciation clause was deliberately omitted because once the people are accorded the protection of the rights under the Second Optional Protocol, they shall not be deprived of such protection. The protocol was also cited by senators opposing the proposed measure at the February 7 Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights’ hearing on the revival of death penalty. The Constitution’s Article III,

Section 19, meanwhile, states that: “Excessive fines shall not be imposed, nor cruel, degrading or inhuman punishment inflicted. Neither shall death penalty be imposed, unless, for compelling reasons involving heinous crimes, the Congress hereafter provides for it.” “There really is no inconsistency between the Second Optional Protocol and the Philippine Constitution,” Gil said. “As a general rule, the Philippine Constitution prohibits the death penalty except for compelling reasons involving heinous crimes. But in no way does it mandate that the death penalty be put into effect,” she added.

Senate panel chair Sen. Richard “Dick” Gordon thereafter called for the indefinite suspension of the hearing citing the need for clarity on the ramifications on the Philippines if it reneges on its obligations. The ICJ, which opposes the death penalty “in all cases without exception” along with human rights groups, welcomed the Senate’s indefinite suspension of the hearings into the death penalty bills. The Senate has yet to announce when it will resume its inquiry into the revival of the death penalty as it is still waiting for the Department of Justice’s submission of its opinion on the protocol.

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Greenlining Institute calls for end to ICE raids Recent campaign spreads fear for no purpose, advocates say

OAKLAND – After rumors— apparently false—circulated yesterday about a new wave of Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in the San Francisco Bay Area, The Greenlining Institute called for an immediate end to the current crackdown on immigrants. Greenlining Institute President Orson Aguilar made the following statement: “Because of these pointless and cruel raids, whole communities are on edge for no good reason. Officials say

they’re cracking down on supposed criminals, but we know that many have been swept up who have no criminal records, along with at least one Dreamer who should have been immune from detention and removal under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. “What America needs is sensible, comprehensive immigration reform that enables full participation in American society by 12 million immigrants who are Americans in every way except for what

papers they possess. These immigrants are part of our neighborhoods and workplaces. They pay taxes. They help build our communities. Instead of wasting tax dollars to hunt down people whose only crime is seeking a better life or to build our own version of the Berlin Wall, we should use our nation’s resources to strengthen our communities, improve our schools and make sure that all within our borders have access to health care.”

Filipino designer on ‘Make America Great...

PAGE A1 women.” Soriano, who has been working with Villa for three years, said he had a few outfit sketches prepared for her based their conversations about “static, the sun, peace, and love.” However, the designs ultimately changed after watching coverage of the Women’s March in Washington, D.C. following President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January. “Someone said they were going to bomb the White House,” he said. “I called Joy immediately and said, ‘I have a new proposition for you. There is so much hatred happening right now in our country and we have a responsibility of making a statement.’” Compelled by this, Soriano decided to transform a Trump flag into a gown and “blinged it out” on both sides. “We have one president right now and we have to move this country forward. That’s why when she revealed the gown, that was her message: we have to support our president and we have to promote love, unity, family and camaraderie,” he said. In an Instagram post, Villa wrote: “Sometimes you just gotta be free to express yourself. Thank

you to all of my supporters and fellow believers. Life is about living free and loving it. Be your beautiful selves tonight!” By Monday afternoon, various reports indicated that digital sales for the 25-year-old singer’s album, “I Make the Static,” jumped to the top spot on Amazon’s list of top 100 digital albums and the No. 7 spot on the iTunes top albums list. “After I spoke to [Joy] last night, it was loud and clear that we delivered our message because there are so many not-so-good things happening here in America. President Trump said it was ‘America First,’ so why don’t we just give him four or eight years to really prove what he can do?” Soriano added. Despite the controversial immigration orders rolled out within the president’s first two weeks in office, Soriano — who migrated from the Philippines years ago — said that he believes the United States will continue to be a welcoming place for immigrants. “It’s an immigrant country where people from countries all over the globe can come here legally, and I think that was the president’s message,” he said. “With what’s happening, he wants to protect all kinds of people here in America. He wants to screen people if they

are legitimate. It’s for the safety of the people who live here and that’s true for all types of immigrants, including me, considering I’m gay too.” With the added publicity, Soriano said he’s motivated to keep on designing daring looks. “I would love to dress our First Lady Melania Trump, and also to go back to the Philippines and showcase my collection,” he said, adding that he is still keen on helping and raising funds for victims of Typhoon Haiyan years later. “I am a proud Filipino American,” he declared. “It’s the American dream for me just to be noticed.” Villa’s dress wasn’t the only political statement made on Sunday night. Katy Perry donned a white pantsuit and an armband with “PERSIST” written on it, alluding to Senator Elizabeth Warren being silenced in Congress the week before. In her acceptance speech, Beyoncé spoke about beauty and racial identity. During a performance with A Tribe Called Quest and Anderson .Paak, Busta Rhymes slammed the president — calling him “President Agent Orange” — for “all of that evil that you‘ve been perpetuating throughout the United States.”

Duterte tells Trillanes: Prove bank... PAGE A2 to engage in mutiny when you don’t have the balls. You immediately put your hands up in surrender when the police arrive. You’re an embarrassment, really. If your family is getting hungry then or now, don’t include us. We’re not us unlucky as your family. We’re

not really poor. My father was governor before. He left us something. What was left for you? Just hot air and bluster. In truth, you’re a bandit.”) Daughter earns as a lawyer The President also answered Trillanes’s allegations against his daughter, Davao City Mayor Sarah

Duterte-Carpio. “He must also have forgotten that my daughter Sara is a lawyer by profession and that she earns from this and that she has clients that actually pay for her services and not from illegal retainers that Trillanes is so used to so doing,” he said.

RESUME TALKS. Rachel Pastores of the Public Interest Law Center (left), Edre Olalia of the National Union of People’s Lawyers and Niki Gamara hold a news conference calling on the government to go back to the negotiating table and continue the peace talks with the National Democratic Front. ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez

Lawmaker introduces bill to comba understaffing in California dialysis clinics SACRAMENTO, Calif. – State Sen. Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens) introduced legislation on Wednesday, February 15, to improve staffing at more than 550 dialysis clinics in California. SB 349, the Dialysis Patient Safety Act, would mandate annual inspections of dialysis clinics and safer staffing levels. Current law requires inspections of dialysis clinics every six years, while nursing homes in California must be inspected every year, and hospitals every two years. “Dialysis patients are grandparents, children and siblings not numbers on a balance sheet,” said Lara. “It’s time to fix the dialysis industry and improve patient care for the more than 63,000 Califor-

nians who rely on this life-saving treatment in clinics daily.” Dialysis is necessary for people with kidney failure, who must have their blood removed, cleaned, and put back into their bodies. A typical treatment lasts three hours, and must be conducted three days a week for the rest of the patient’s life. The two largest dialysis corporations – DaVita and Fresenius – make $2.9 billion a year in profits from their dialysis operations in the United States, but workers say the companies pocket the money rather than improve patient care or provide adequate staffing in their clinics. Dialysis workers regularly report staffing levels so low that it

threatens patient care. One worker cited an incident last March at a dialysis clinic in Anaheim, Calif. in which a patient collapsed in the parking lot. The worker said it could have been prevented if more staff were onsite at the time. Seven states already have minimum staffing levels in dialysis clinics: Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas and Utah. Dialysis workers in California have been organizing into a union, SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW), for safer working conditions and stronger worker and patient protections. To learn more about the campaign, visit www.morethannumbers.org.

Linda McMahon confirmed by Senate as SBA Administrator WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate confirmed on Tuesday, February 14, President Donald Trump’s nomination of Linda E. McMahon as the 25th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration. “Small businesses are the engine of our national economy,” McMahon said upon her confirmation. “I will work to revitalize a spirit of entrepreneurship in America. Small businesses want to feel they can take a risk on an expansion or a new hire without fearing onerous new regulations or unexpected taxes, fees and fines that will make such growth unaffordable. We want to renew optimism in our economy.” “I want to thank President Trump for this opportunity to join his Administration and to advocate for our nation’s small business owners and entrepreneurs,” McMahon said. “I would also like to express my appreciation to Joe Loddo for his leadership as Acting Administrator during this transition, along with everyone at the SBA for the hard work they are doing to support America’s small businesses.” In testimony on January 24 before the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, McMahon discussed her hands-on experience managing

and helping to grow small businesses. “As an entrepreneur myself, I have shared the experiences of our nation’s small business owners. My husband and I built our business from scratch. We started out sharing a desk. Over decades of hard work and strategic growth, we built it into a publicly traded global enterprise with more than 800 employees. I am proud of our success – I know every bit of the hard work it took to create that success.” “I believe in leadership by example. As a CEO, I never expect employees to do anything I am not willing to do myself. I believe in setting expectations and holding people accountable, but trusting them to do the job for which they were hired. I look forward to working with the SBA staff. I am eager to learn from their experience and expertise. I will listen, and their ideas, concerns and recommendations will be taken seriously.” As Administrator of the SBA, McMahon will direct a federal agency with more than 2,000 full-time employees, with a leading role in helping small business owners and entrepreneurs secure financing, technical assistance and training, and federal contracts. SBA also plays a leading role in disaster recovery by making low

interest loans. McMahon is the co-founder and chief executive officer of Women’s Leadership LIVE, as well as the co-founder and former CEO of WWE. She was the Republican nominee to represent Connecticut in the U.S. Senate in 2010 and 2012. McMahon is an advocate for small business and continues to promote entrepreneurship, particularly among women. McMahon is a graduate of East Carolina University. She and her husband, Vince, have two adult children and six grandchildren. About the U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) was created in 1953 and since January 13, 2012, has served as a Cabinet-level agency of the federal government to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns, to preserve free competitive enterprise and to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of our nation. The SBA helps Americans start, build and grow businesses. Through an extensive network of field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations, the SBA delivers its services to people throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam.

USAID programs in PH continue despite... PAGE A1

According to her, the Duterte administration sought to pursue USAID programs related to health, education, and promotion of resiliency amid both man-made and natural disasters. “I think on the implementation level, they have asked us to continue because there is unfinished business. There is work to be done and, like I said, our whole goal was to make this a sustainable program so that Filipinos could carry this on by themselves,” she added. Steele also said that the USAID will continue its assistance in Mindanao this year, which will address resilience issues and

growth. Drug rehabilitation has yet to be added to the agency’s list of projects in the Philippines. However, Washington remains open to such programs. “That was an area that was brought up. Right now we don’t have resources for that. It’s just a discussion,” Steele explained. She went on to say, “They (Philippine government) just said that’s an area they want to talk to us about but we don’t have resources. I didn’t say we’re not supporting. I said we have discussions going on.” Last year, Duterte dared Washington to pull out its assistance from the country, following the

criticisms from the United States — under former President Barack Obama — against the Philippines’ intensified campaign against illegal drugs. Duterte then insisted that the Philippines could survive on its own without receiving any aid from the U.S. government. “I do not expect the human rights (advocates), I do not expect (former U.S. President Barack) Obama, I do not expect the EU to understand me. Do not understand me and if you think it’s high time for you guys to withdraw your assistance, go ahead. We will not beg for it,” Duterte said during a speech sometime in October. (Dana Sioson / AJPress)

Last year, the governments of Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines agreed to conduct trilateral maritime and aerial patrol cooperation to address the increasing criminal activities in ‘maritime areas of common concern.’ “It’s not just the concern of the Philippines or Indonesia and Malaysia, but of the international shipping community,” Garcia added. Recently, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said he asked China to help patrol across the international waters to combat the rising incidents of maritime kidnappings and piracy. “We would be glad if they have their presence there. Hindi naman kailangan (It doesn’t neces-

sarily have to be) gray ships eh. Sabi ko, basta iyong Coast Guard cutter, just to patrol (I said, even with just letting the Coast Guard cutter patrol), like what they did in Somalia, tumulong sila (they helped). Somalia has toned down. Pero dito sa (But here in) Malacca Strait, pati dito sa (And also here in) Sulu Sea, it remains to be a big problem,” Duterte said during a speech on January 31. According to Garcia, the Philippine and Chinese coast guards would likely discuss the details of the eyed sea patrol cooperation next week. Lorenzana said the Philippines plans to “talk to the ministry of defense of China on how to operationalise this joint patrol.” (Dana M. Sioson/AJPress)

Philippines to ask US for help to counter... PAGE A1 ingly dangerous’ as the number of maritime kidnappings in the region hit a 10-year high in 2016. IMB said 62 people were kidnapped for ransom in waters between Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, a lot higher compared to only 19 in 2015 and nine in 2014. Indonesia also previously warned that the area could become the “next Somalia,” referring to a country in Africa where ship hijackings have been a crisis for the past decades. “If shipowners will skirt that area just to avoid kidnap at sea activities by these terrorists, for sure, it will have an additional cost,” Philippine Coast Guard Chief Commodore Joel Garcia told AFP.

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D ateline PhiliPPines Sueno open to being replaced by First transgender solon in PH to join the army Bongbong Marcos as DILG chief by Dana

M. SioSon

AJPress

PHILIPPInE Interior Secretary Ismael “Mike” Sueno said that he is not offended by the rumors suggesting that he might soon be replaced as the head of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). In a statement on Wednesday, February 15, Sueno said that it is within President Rodrigo Duterte’s “power, wisdom and discretion to appoint members of his Cabinet.” “We serve at the pleasure of the president,” he said. the interior secretary made the remarks amid rumors suggesting that Duterte was preparing to appoint former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as the new chief of the DILG. “With the information being floated about the change at the helm of the DILG, I take no offense whatsoever. It is business as usual for me as I dispense my duties and functions with the blessings of President Duterte,” Sueno added. Sought for comments, Malacañang said that it does not have any knowledge on the matter. “May narinig ka na ganyan (Did you hear something like that)?

DILG Sec. Ismael Sueno and former Senator Bongbong Marcos

ako wala (I don’t),” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto abella said in a briefing on tuesday, February 14. abella then added, “Frankly, I don’t have knowledge of that. as far as I’m concerned, I have not received anything.” On the other hand, should Marcos get appointed as the new DILG chief, albay Representative Edcal Lagman said that the former senator has to withdraw the poll protest he has filed against former Camarines Sur Representative and now Vice President Leni Robredo. During the May 2016 vice presidential election, Robredo won the position with only around 263,000 votes more than Marcos. Marcos accused Robredo of committing a massive electoral fraud.

Inquirer.net photos

“He can accept but (if) he accepts, he is constrained to withdraw his petition. the court has several rulings on that. tumanggap ka ng posisyon (You accepted a position) why are you still pursuing a case?” Lagman explained. Last December, Duterte revealed that Marcos initially wanted to head the Department of tourism (DOt). “I do not want to make promises and I will not even say an assumption for the public until I have the wherewithals in my hands,” Duterte told Cnn Philippines. Marcos, however, cannot assume a new government position until mid-2017 as the law forbids appointing losing candidates for any Cabinet posts one year after the election.

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

Bataan Rep. Geraldine Roman, the first transgender member of the Philippine House of Representatives, expressed her interest in joining the military as a reserve officer. In a statement on Wednesday, February 15, Roman commended the policy of the armed Forces of the Philippines (aFP) which allows members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBt) community to join the military. “I will be applying to become a military officer in the aFP Reserve Force to become the first transgender military officer of the Philippine Republic,” the lawmaker said. “this will complement their appreciation for the LGBt community for they will see that we can exemplify the same sense of discipline, the same military professionalism, and the same love of country that the current men and women in uniform embody,” she

added. Roman remarked that as a transgender, she would wear a military woman’s uniform and haircut. at the same time, Roman showed her support for the proposed revival of the mandatory Reserved Officers training Corps (ROtC) for Grades 11 and 12 in both public and private schools nationwide. She added that she would also encourage the youth “to join and promote our nation’s ROtC because this will prepare them for our country’s defense and for earthquake/typhoon rescue operations.” the military, meanwhile, welcomed Roman’s intention to join the army. “We highly value the patriotism of our citizens and will work to cultivate this. She will be a welcome addition to the Reservists Force,” aFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said. aFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard arevalo, however, re-

Palace says Duterte’s break not health-related ManILa - Why is President Rodrigo Duterte not seen in public lately? His spokesman, Ernesto abella could not provide specifics about his recent activities but claimed that the week-long break was not health-related. “You have to understand that his schedules are really brutal and anybody would need to rest,” abella said in a press briefing thursday, Feb. 16. “I’m not saying that he is resting right now. But in the past quiet days, probably was. But he also had a number of activities in Davao,” he added. abella said the president had meetings in his hometown but did not elaborate. “I am not saying that he took a health-related break. I said he is in Davao. and if he is resting

there, then that’s also part of his – why he’s there. But it’s not a health-related break,” he added. “the president…has all the usual afflictions. But, however, you know, he doesn’t have anything extraordinary. He’s in pink of health considering his age,” abella said. Duterte, who usually has two to three engagements per day, also went on a week-long hiatus last month. In a newspaper column, former Sen. Francisco tatad claimed to have received reports that the president had traveled to China to meet with doctors of the Fuda Cancer Hospital in Guangzhou. the president denied that he has cancer and called tatad a “monster” and an “idiot.” In jest, Duterte admitted going to a hos-

pital in China to undergo circumcision. Duterte has not been visible lately, his latest public appearance being his visit to earthquake victims in Surigao City last Sunday. the president had one engagement in Davao City thursday but it was not open to the media. He was scheduled to meet with nikolay Patrushev, Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, in Panacan. Details of their discussion were not available as of press time. “I think it’s a closed meeting. I think basically it’s a courtesy call,” abella said. Duterte previously admitted that he has spinal problems, migraine and Buerger’s disease, an ailment caused by smoking. (Philstar.com)

A UNQUE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

AT MONTEMARIA ESTATES, BATANGAS CITY, PHILIPPINES

WINDING ITS WAY SOON

A PROJECT OF

Bataan Rep. Geraldine Roman AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya

minded that anyone who wishes to train within the aFP must “maintain the dignity of the uniform; observe discipline, propriety and decorum; and measure up to the steep standards of the service.” “In the process of training prospective members, the aFP inculcates on them that that they are entering an institution placed in high esteem,” arevalo said. addressing the standards in wearing a military uniform, arevalo said that the aFP must “have to go by the gender of the applicant as reflected in the certificate of live birth.”

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OpiniOn

Features

Justified

POLITICAL reform in the Philippines is hounded by high public expectation because of untold amounts of corruption and lawbreaking by public officials for years. It is like a mirage that never truly materializes; it recedes the closer we try to get to it. There are those who maintain a level of cynicism toward the political system and apathy toward political participation because of a negative perception of people who are elected to office. This negative connotation exists because of the few public officials who have abused their power to accomplish personal and selfish pursuits. The penalization of plunder in the Philippines is only two decades old. Republic Act 7080 or the Anti-Plunder Law was enacted in the wake of former President Ferdinand Marcos’s dictatorship—when he and his cronies allegedly amassed ill-gotten wealth. The law was passed in 1991 to be used as a deterrant to prevent public officials from stealing money from the government. The law states that plunder is committed by any public officer who, by himself or herself, or in connivance with members of his or her family, relatives by affinity or consanguinity, business associates, subordinates or other persons, amasses, accumulates or acquires ill-gotten wealth through a combination or series of overt or criminals acts as described in Section 1(d) hereof in the aggregate amount or total value of at least Fifty million pesos (P50,000,000.00) shall be guilty of the crime of plunder and shall be punished by reclusion perpetua to death. A proposed measure to reinstate the death penalty in the country is currently set for plenary debates. Under the proposed measure, three methods may be used in executing the death penalty — hanging, firing squad or lethal injection. Heinous crimes including plunder will be punishable by proposed death penalty.

But during a caucus of the majority coalition members in the House of Representatives, an agreement was reached to exclude plunder from crimes that warrant capital punishment. It was the majority’s agreement to relegate plunder to a serious capital offense only punishable with life imprisonment. Plunder remains on the list unless removed when the death penalty bill is tackled during the period of amendments in the plenary. Speaker of the House of Representatives Pantaleon Alvarez maintained that there’s more reason to include plunder among heinous crimes punishable by death following alleged irregularities in contracts involving government officials. Meanwhile, the Senate has suspended public hearings of the death penalty bill over concerns of violations of an international treaty. As a signatory of the Treaty of International Convention on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) of the United Nations Human Rights Committee, the Philippines is prevented from carrying out execution as a form of punishment. There are already existing stringent anti-corruption laws that are meant to stem the tide of graft and corrupt officials who brazenly plunder the public treasury. The cruel penalization of erring public officials may not effectively revive the country’s damaged political existence, but it will ignite zero-tolerance to any form of corruption within the government. This will hold more accountability for people in public office and may pave the way for political stability and sustainable development. (AJPress)

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

FLYNNGATE: What the Trump administration needs to explain to the American people DONALD TRUMP has bigger problems to worry about than his historic 40 percent approval/55 percent disapproval ratings in the most recent Gallup Poll. His less than a month-old presidency has already been saddled with lawsuits one after another, and then this: the issue about the “resignation” of his senior National Security Adviser Michael Flynn. NO, Mr. President, Flynn’s scandal is NOT less important than who leaked it. Journalists surely will not “move on” despite the resignation of Flynn. This Flynn scandal, has in fact, just opened a can of worms, and more questions beg to be answered. Did you know that Flynn had not been truthful when he denied having talked to the Russian envoy about easing sanctions imposed by the Obama administration for hacking the U.S. Presidential Elections in December 2016 — when Donald Trump

envoy, Putin did not fight back was president-elect and had not against the U.S. sanctions as he been sworn into office? The Fil-Am had always done so in the past, You reportedly denied prior and then you tweeted gushing knowledge of this but your office Perspective over Putin’s smartness for his had been warned by the Departresponse? ment of Justice about this 18 days Would this Flynn scandal be ago. Why did you lose “trust” in related to the Russian hacking Flynn just now, after the Washwhich could have undermined ington Post exposed the scandal? Gel SantoS-ReloS the integrity of the election? Had the Washington Post not broken the news, would it still be business as usual Would this be the reason why you had been such between you and Flynn despite your knowledge a big fan of Putin to the point of speaking against that Flynn had been dishonest in his disclosures the United States just to defend him during your about his talk with the Russian diplomat about interview on Fox News? What hold does the former KGB official and now president of Russia have sanctions? What gave Flynn the boldness to talk with the over you and your independence as the commandRussian diplomat about Putin not having to worry er-in-chief and president of the United States? These are just some of the questions that needabout the sanctions? Was it coincidental that after the phone calls between Flynn and the Russian ed to be answered, Mr. President, because the na-

tional security of the U.S. is at stake here. It is mind boggling how you now worry about “leaks” when you would praise WikiLeaks before you became president. Could it be that the leaks are coming from within your administration as a “cry for help” as many analysts say? Democrats and some Republican senators are now calling for an investigation into this scandal. The truth based on real facts would have to come out, Mr. President — NOT alternative facts. You owe that to the American people. Welcome to the real world. This ain’t a reality show that you can direct and write a script for high ratings. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos

Peter Favila: The next BSP governor?

SPYBITS

BaBe G. Romualdez WITH the July 2 retirement of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando “Say” Tetangco drawing near, the rumor mill is going into overdrive that his likely successor is Peter Favila. The former Philippine Stock Exchange chairman comes highly qualified, having made a name in local banking as former head of several banks that include Security Bank, Allied Bank and the Philippine National Bank. A number of banks have endorsed him for the position of BSP governor, expressing confidence that he will do well. Several businessmen also approve of him, pointing to his experience in local banking, plus the fact that he is currently a consultant of the BSP where he is known as a main “troubleshooter” especially for complicated and delicate problems. Of course, one of those who believes in Peter — who finished banking and finance from the University of Sto. Tomas and also took an advanced management program at Wharton – is Pampanga Rep. and Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo who appointed him as secretary of the Department of Trade and In-

dustry during her term as president. In November 2015 during the Autumn Imperial Decorations ceremony, the government of Japan conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star on Peter Favila in recognition of his contributions in strengthening the economic relations between Japan and the Philippines. It was during his term as DTI secretary that the bilateral Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) was finally ratified in 2008. Yasay to stay on as DFA secretary Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto “Jun” Yasay was also rumored to be in the running as the next BSP chief following the pronouncement of President Rodrigo Duterte that Senator Alan Peter Cayetano would be the next DFA secretary. But apparently — based on the information we received — the President wants Jun to stay on as DFA secretary, at least until the end of this year because of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that the Philippines is hosting this year. The 2017 ASEAN summit also marks the 50thfounding anniversary of the regional organization, with the Philippines among the five founding members that also include Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. Preparations are already underway with

Jun at the forefront – a no mean feat considering the numerous events that will be staged to commemorate the organization’s golden anniversary. Aside from the Leaders’ Summit and ministerial meetings, more than 100 meetings will be held in Metro Manila, Cebu, Pampanga, Laoag, Palawan, Legazpi, Boracay, Iloilo, Bacolod, Bohol, Cagayan de Oro and of course, Davao. If Senator Cayetano is to take over the DFA, it could be next year – or maybe not, since the president was supposed to have said that he needs Alan Peter in the Senate. You can lose your money in the bank Banking has been made easy and convenient through online banking with account holders able to conduct transactions practically anywhere. However, this can also be risky because somebody can tamper with your account and conduct unauthorized withdrawals. This is what happened to our friend Roberto “Tito” de Venecia and his wife who had small accounts at the Bank of America branch in California as emergency funds whenever they visit the US. Tito said all transactions were conducted over the counter at the bank branch and received statements up until 2010, after which he did not receive any further statements or notices. He wrote several letters to BoA

Peter Favila

inquiring about their accounts’ status, but these went unanswered. Imagine his surprise, therefore, when during a visit to the bank branch in California the other year, he was referred to a “personal banker” who told him that the accounts no longer exist — with the balance cleaned out through repeated online withdrawals from the Philippines. The bank said they may have been victims of identity fraud

and their accounts had been tampered — despite the fact that Tito never registered for online services. Bank of America has been very unresponsive and seems to be doing nothing about the theft. Calls to the bank on the number given by the “personal banker” are either unanswered or just give a recorded message. Reports indicate that the Bank of America’s online system went haywire sometime in 2011 with other users able to see the ac-

count details of other customers when they log in. Worse, the bank did not even notify its depositors about what was happening. Tito de Venecia says his experience should serve as a warning — and lesson — to other depositors that they should not leave their accounts inactive for long periods because other people — perhaps even insiders — could gain access and take all their money from the bank. (Philstar.com)

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may 30-june 5, 2014 www.asianjournal.com

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february 17-23, 2017

Filipino producer Jhett Tolentino wins first Grammy award

By MoMar

G. Visaya

AJPress

FILIPINO producer Jhett Tolentino took home the Grammy Award on Sunday, February 12 for Best Musical Theater Album for “The Color Purple,” the musical based off of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. This is Tolentino’s first Grammy, which he said was unexpected and an “impossible dream.” “I still can’t believe it. Nobody thought this could happen. When ‘The Color Purple’ was called, my mind went on a rewind and I remembered everything that I had to go through. I take pride in the award and it is an honor. I’m inspired to deliver more great work,” Tolentino told the Asian Journal on Tuesday, February 14. Tolentino co-produced the album alongside producers Van Dean, Stephen Bray, Roy Furman, Scott Sanders, and Frank Filipetti. Cynthia Erivo, Jennifer Hudson, and Danielle Brooks are the

principal soloists of the album, while Stephen Bray, Brenda Russell, and Allee Willis are the composers/lyricists. “It was such a big category. We were up against Cyndi Lauper, Steve Martin, Sara Bareilles and ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ was a great production as well,” he said. “This is my fifth time attending the Grammys and two of my previous shows were nominated too before. Ours was the first category and it feels like it happened too fast, it was too fast.” He shared that he raised funds to become a producer for the musical’s original cast recording, which happened over the span of two days. Last year, “The Color Purple” received the Tony Awards for Best Revival of a Musical and Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical (Cynthia Erivo). “Cynthia Erivo is a darling. She’s a great talent,” Tolentino commented.

The Iloilo native is a three-time Tony Award winner for “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” (Best Musical) “A Raisin in the Sun,” (Best Revival) and “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” (Best Play). He is the second Philippine-born Tony Award winner, and the first and only Filipino Tony Awards voter. He earned a bachelor of science in accountancy from the University of Iloilo in 1997, and made his Broadway debut in 2013 with “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.” As for what’s next for him, he is looking to start producing Broadway shows in the Philippines and is wrapping up his documentary, “Life is What You Make It.” “I am hoping to find Filipino editors who can work with me to finish the film. And hopefully we can bring it to international film festivals. If not, then we can screen it in the Philippines and I wish that young children there

JR De Guzman

Broadway producer Jhett Tolentino AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya

will be inspired and think that poverty is not a death sentence. Just look at me, I’m a living example. Just be resourceful and stick with it, you don’t have to rely on your parents,” he said. It is also his dream to have a Filipino show on Broadway. “It is going to be my crusade to make it happen, to bring something about the Philippines to the Broadway stage,” he added.

Regine Velasquez as a standup comic by tessa

MauriCio-arriola ManilaTimes.net

Regine Velasquez

REGINE Velasquez is still on a league of her own in the Philippine music scene no matter how many new belters come and go. She remains a standout whether she sings in variety show or any concert stage around the world. Throughout her almost threedecade career in entertainment, however, the singer has also done movies and teleseryes, adding to her popularity, the most successful of which always had her in comedic roles. Now 46-years-old and as visible in showbiz as ever, what else has Velasquez not done? The answer is to combine her talent for singing

and penchant for comedy. As such, her mother studio, GMA Network, has given Asia’s Songbird her very own comedymusical show, titled “Full House Tonight.” Along with a bandwagon of stars from comedy gay bars in Philip Lazaro, Kim Idol, Terry Gian, Sarah Brakensiek, Tammy Brown, and Nar Cabico, she will showcase her lungs of steel as well as take on riotous roles and improvisation in skits. “I’m of course very excited and very thankful that GMA has given me this kind of show kasi medyo na-miss ko na yung variety show. At least dito kumakanta ako ulit, pero hindi lang yun, nagku-comedy rin, at binibigyan din naman ako ng

freedom to choose the songs,” the multi-awarded artist gamely shared. “It’s actually harder to make people laugh than to make them cry, so medyo may kaba kaming lahat pero it’s mostly exciting for all of us,” she continued. “But I’m sure the viewers will love it and have fun watching every episode.” Adding star power to the program is another multihyphenate artist in Solenn Heussaff, and teen idols Bianca Umali and Miguel Tanfelix, and noted supporting actor Joross Gamboa. Directed by Louie Ignacio, “Full House Tonight” airs weekly beginning Saturday, February 18 after Magpakailanman on GMA Network.

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Photos courtesy of NBCUniversal

Fil-Am wins ‘StandUp NBC,’ a nationwide search for comedians Awarded one-year talent holding deal with NBCUniversal by Christina

M. oriel

AJPress

A MILLENNIAL Filipino American has won this year’s ‘StandUp NBC,’ a national search for stand-up comedians of diverse backgrounds. JR De Guzman was selected from over 600 stand-up comedians who auditioned at open calls last year in New York City, San Diego, Nashville and Austin. As part of his win, he has been awarded a one-year talent holding deal with NBCUniversal and a headlining spot later this month at the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) annual convention where he will perform before talent bookers from across the country. He will also headline the regional semi-finalist showcases for this year’s ‘StandUp NBC.’ De Guzman — a musician and music teacher who was born in the Philippines and raised in California — said that he is “thankful and blessed” to have this opportunity. “I really hope this is a win for the Filipino community and

people of all diverse backgrounds,” he said in an interview with the Asian Journal on Thursday, February 9. The Fil-Am, who mixes music into his comedy performances, shared how he would write jokes during class, which eventually inspired him to take a course on stand-up while at UC Davis. He first auditioned for ‘StandUp NBC’ back in 2013 early on in his stand-up career but didn’t feel as prepared. He eventually returned to the competition in 2016 with a “really Continued on Page 3

Dingdong Dantes as docu host by Tessa Mauricio-arriola ManilaTimes.net

DinGDOnG Dantes is about to round up three showbiz identities that begin with the letter “D.” As everyone knows, this A-list celebrity started out in the industry as a dancer in the all-male group Abztract, and became famous as a dramatic actor. This saturday, February 18, he adds on another “D” to his many capabilities as documentary host in a new program called “Case solved” on GMA network. “Case solved” features sensational and controversial real-life cases ranging from nonaggressive to violent circumstances derived from Philippines’ supreme Court Reports Annotated (sCRA) handled by the country’s national Bureau of investigation (nBi), Philippine national Police (PnP), international Criminal Police Organization (interpol), judicial agencies like the Department of Justice (DOJ), supreme Court and Bureau of Corrections. More than presenting how the crime is committed, it further explains how the crime is solved. Known to be a youth leader outside of showbiz as former commissioner-at-large of the national Youth Commission during the Aquino administration,

Dingdong Dantes

Dantes is also recognized as an advocate for peace and justice, and therefore, excited to take on a show that allows him to help educate viewers on crime prevention. “i like the concept of the show kasi it’s always good to have concrete stories as example. Also,

it shows a positive ending wherein pinapakita ‘yung resolution ng problema. Yung combination of all these things inspires me. With this, gusto ko i-share ito sa mga manunuod. i want them to see a story of triumph dahil gusto nating makakita ng problemang naaayos,” he said.

nicest, down to earth, easy to work with and humble designer/ friend i know. Ang dami na natin pinagdaan and i will really really miss you.” The actress added a lengthier post and said, “i was shocked the moment i got the call, ayaw ko muna maniwala kasi alam ko may dinner pa tayo this week… Thank you Pepsi for everything, thank you for all kindness, the friendship and for all the help… love you!! May you rest in peace with our Creator.” Velasquez, known as Asia’s songbird, also posted some of Herrera’s bespoke gowns on instagram [@reginevalcasid], and wrote, “Today is a sad day. We will miss you.” Another Pepsi Herrera muse Coleen Garcia wrote lengthy tribute for the late designer, revealing that he was supposed to design her wedding gown when she weds fiancé Billy Crawford. “it has barely sunk in yet. it’s so hard to believe that you’re gone. You were supposed to

make my wedding dress. My heart is shattered,” Garcia wrote on her account [@coleengarcia]. she continued, “You have always been such a great, pleasant person, and i will forever appreciate the effort you put into supporting me from the very start, and creating beautiful gowns for me, from the first star Magic Ball to the last—when you excitedly told me that you wanted that year’s dress to be the hardest one you’ve ever done! i pray that everyone who knew you will continue to remember you as the talented, kind-hearted person you were.” named Roger Herrera in real life, the designer was an alumna of sto. Tomas University and international school Manila. Besides dressing celebrities for special occasions, the annual star Magic Ball his most prominent runway, Herrera is also a favorite designer for brides. Together with Tan, Herrera was behind the label Adorata Weddings+. (ManilaTimes.net)

Fil-Am wins ‘StandUp NBC,’ a nationwide search... good feeling about doing this,” he said. De Guzman detailed the process that entailed three early rounds of doing stand-up for a few minutes. nine finalists were then chosen for the finale showcase hosted by comedian and ‘standUp nBC’ alumnus Orlando leyba at The improv in Hollywood. He and the other finalists performed their sets in front of an audience of television executives, casting directors, agents, managers and industry tastemakers, a release from nBCUniversal Talent infusion Programs said. “JR is a unique comic talent who impressed us with his presence and genuine optimism,” said Grace Wu, executive vice president of casting at nBC entertainment, in a statement. “i am grateful that our pipeline programs like ‘standUp nBC’ continue to introduce us to fresh new voices who will widen the

Are they destined for each other? Philstar.com

Pepsi Herrera with Billy Crawford and Coleen Garcia

From Page 2

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by ricky lo

Celebs bid farewell to Pepsi Herrera Tinsel town’s red carpet events will never be the same again with Pepsi Herrera, designer to the stars, gone too soon. The fashion designer died on February 10. He was 56. Herrera’s business partner edwin Tan confirmed the news on Friday night as he asked for prayers for the late designer. While Tan did not specify Herrera’s cause of death, several reports and social media posts suggested he succumbed to cardiac arrest. His remains were cremated Friday and laid to rest on February 12 at Heritage Memorial Park in Taguig City. Dressing the likes of A-list celebrities like Regine Velasquez, Zsazsa Padilla and Kris Aquino, as well as younger stylistas in Kim Chiu, Janella salvador and Kathryn Bernardo, an outpouring of grief and tributes for Herrera flooded social media this week. On instagram, Chiu [@ chinitaprincess] posted a collage of designs Herrera made for her, with the caption: “To one of the

February 17-23, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

breadth of talent for our shows.” During his routines, De Guzman integrates a lot of “jokes about [his] family and culture.” “Filipinos are just so funny naturally that…it’s too easy to get material from my family or coming back from the Philippines, i’ll get a bunch of new material,” he said, adding that his father is another key source of humor. Recently, De Guzman appeared on Hulu’s “Coming to the stage,” Comedy Central’s “Kevin Hart Presents: Hart of the City” and MTV’s “Acting Out.” He has also traveled around the world to perform, including for stand-Up Tokyo and ROR Comedy in Japan, the Jokers Ball in indonesia, the Badaboom Comedy series in Amsterdam and the edmonton Comedy Festival. in addition to auditioning for pilot season and participating in the other events associated with his win, he is looking forward

to releasing his debut comedy album, “Dual Citizen,” on February 24. “it’s very fitting — it talks about growing up Filipino in America,” he said. “…i think it’s important for other Filipinos interested in [comedy] to see someone else doing it and see that it’s an option,” he added. “Being Filipino on the comedy side of it motivated me to hopefully one day be a role model for other Filipinos, like [those] striving to be comedians, entertainers or performers in some ways.” now in its 13th year, previous ‘standUp nBC’ winners and alumni include Deon Cole (“Black-ish”, “Angie Tribeca”), Ron Funches (“Powerless”), Tone Bell (netflix’s upcoming comedy “Disjointed,” “Truth Be Told”), W. Kamau Bell (Cnn’s “United shades of America”), lil Rel Howery (“The Carmichael show”) and Brandon T. Jackson (“Deadbeat,” “Tropic Thunder”).

BeCAUse they have been keeping a punishing schedule involving daily shoots for “Destined To Be Yours (DTBY),” their first soap starrer set to premiere two Mondays from now (Feb. 27), taking over the timeslot to be vacated by Dingdong Dantes’ action-adventure “Robin Hood,” Maine Mendoza and Alden Richards have been feeling under the weather these days. Between shoots in sometimes as far away as Quezon, they also have to show up on “eat, Bulaga!” every now and then, limited to twice or thrice a week. Directed by irene Villamor, “DTBY” tells a love story quite different from the one in imagine You & Me, the loveteam’s first solo starrer (after appearing with Vic sotto and Ai-Ai de las Alas in “My Bebe love”) that raked in millions at the tills. The all-star cast includes Boots Anson-Roa, Gardo Versoza, Tommy Abuel, Ronnie Henares, ina Feleo, sheena Halili, Dominic Roco, Juancho Trivino, RJ Padilla, Koreen Medina and lotlot de leon. When Maine and Alden showed up for this interview before the presscon the other day, they had tarried a bit. Obviously, a few days rest would do them good. But still, they were game during the Q&A that kicked off on love and loving, the day being Valentine’s Day. it seemed that neither of them had any date that night. Define love? Maine: love is when you care about someone….when you give someone importance and you take good care not just him but also those who are important to him. Kapag pinahahalagahan mo ang isang tao, pag inaalagaan mo siya it means you love him. Ganoon din ang gawin mo sa mga taong mahal at mahalaga sa kanya. Alden: love is being selfless. sabi nga ni Miss Yayo Aguila when she guested on “eat, Bulaga!,” it’s putting others first before you. Sila muna bago ikaw. How many times have you been in love…not necessarily romantic love, could be familial love or love for pets, you know? Maine: several times already, kasi mapagmahal akong tao.

Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza

Alden: i’m always in love, especially as far as my family is concerned. if you are referring to people who are important to you and you care about, then i’m always in love. How do you know that you are in love, what are the signs? Maine: As a line from our movie put it, kapag lagi mo siyang iniisip. Actually, there are no signs. Feelingko if you are in love, you don’t ask questions. You will know it deep in your heart, alam mo sa sarili mo kung mahal mo ang isang tao. Alden: You know you are in love when you give the person special attention and you feel good when you are around the person. Parang yung taong yon ang reason for your happiness. Have you ever been broken hearted? Maine: Oo naman! i think all of us have experienced being brokenhearted. it’s a part of life. Alden: Yes po. As we grow older, binibigyan tayo ng patikim. Yes, i have been heart-broken. Are you in love now? Maine: in general? Yes, i’m in love now! i’m in love with life! Alden (Breaking into boyish smile): Yes po. i’m always in love. Do you work better when you’re in love and are therefore inspired? Maine: Yes, of course! Kasi being in love becomes your source of inspiration kahit papano yung mga bagay na nagpapaligaya sa akin. Alden: Yes, love inspires. When you are in love, you are driven even if you are not feeling well. if you put love in everything that you do,

it inspires you to do better and to excel in anything that you do. Put love in your work and it will give love back in return. How has your work on “Destined To Be Yours” been so far? Maine: so far, so good. Mayroon lang konting adjustments na dapat gawin. Alden: Tiring but it’s worth it. Aside from “Eat, Bulaga!,” you have worked together in a movie, so you must be close to and comfortable with each other. Maine: Yes, we are. Alden: Totoo ‘yan. Do you confide in each other? Maine: Yes, about personal problems. Alden: We are together every day, we work together most of the time, so strengthening our relationship is part of our life. Do you believe in destiny? Maine: Yes. Alden: Yes. What if in the long run destiny will bring you together? Maine: if it’s not destiny, it won’t happen. Alden: Hindi naman sa pinangungunahan natin ang buhay, it’s the law of attraction. When deep in your heart you believe in something, universe will make that happen. Otherwise, it won’t happen. Wala tayong magagawa. (To Maine): If you were Alden, liligawan mo ba si Maine? Maine (Thinks a while): Uhm…ahhh…puede po! (To Alden) If you were Maine, sasagutin mo ba si Alden? Alden (Without hesitating): Of course, i would!

February 17-23, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

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Pg&e creates new California external Affairs organization as part of broader realignment of the company’s strategy, policy and outreach efforts SAN FRANCISCO— Pacific Gas and Electric Company announced the restructuring of its state external affairs functions in order to more effectively engage with stakeholders to meet the needs of customers and the state. Effective March 1, Vice President Travis Kiyota will lead the newly formed California External Affairs organization, which will consolidate the existing functions of state government relations, state agency relations, local public affairs and community relations as well as a new functional area responsible for external affairs and strategic initiatives. Kiyota will report to Steve Malnight, senior vice president of the newly constituted Strategy and Policy organization. As previously announced, Malnight’s new

EMPLOYMENT

organization comprises strategy, policy, grid integration and innovation, energy procurement, local, state and federal affairs and communityrelations. This organizational structure is intended to ensure that stakeholder outreach and engagement are fully integrated with strategy and policy. “In his expanded position, Travis will play a key role in ensuring that we are collaborating effectively with policymakers and our partners as we work together to meet California’s clean energy goals,” Malnight said. “At PG&E, ‘Together, Building a Better California’ isn’t just a tagline. It’s a guiding principle and we are honored to have the opportunity to work in partnership with California stakeholders and policymakers to help build and sustain a state

that leads the country in energy technology, innovation and policy,” Kiyota said. Reporting to Kiyota will be: • Senior Director Brandon Hernandez, who will lead External Affairs and Strategic Initiatives, with responsibility for supporting PG&E’s advocacy and education efforts within the state capitol, state agencies, and statewide organizations. • Senior Director Kent Kauss, who will lead state legislative policy development, tracking and analysis. • Senior Director Ananda Baron, who leads community relations and the PG&E Foundation. • Directors Mary Ellen Ittner and Papia Gambelin, who will lead local public affairs throughout the service territory.

AT&T ranks #1 in telecom globally in Fortune’s Most Admired Companies for third year in a row AT&T also ranked among world’s Top 50 Most Admired Companies

DALLAS—AT&T* was recognized by Fortune magazine as the Most Admired Telecommunications Company in the world in 2017 for the third year in a row. “Our industry has never been more dynamic than it is right now. And that makes this recognition particularly meaningful,” said AT&T Chairman and CEO Randall Stephenson. “It’s really a tribute to the hard work and customer commitment of each and every employee in the AT&T family.” The publication also placed AT&T at #37 among the Top 50 Most Admired companies in the (Advertising Supplement) world. This is our fourth year on the Global Top 50 list. AT&T is also the only communications company on the list. We ranked first in all 9 attributes again, including innovation, financial soundness and quality of products/services. Fortune’s Most Admired Companies lists are among the most highly respected indicators of corporate performance and reputation. Fortune and its partner, the Hay Group, survey top executives and directors from Fortune 1000 and Global 500 companies and financial analysts to identify the Most Admired Companies. They seek companies with the strongest reputations, both in their own industry and overall. Then, they rate companies on various attributes. This includes ability to attract and retain talented people, quality of products and services, quality of management, innovation, social responsibility, and use of corporate assets and long-term investment value. *AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

EMPLOYMENT

PSYCHIC

AT&T Inc. helps millions around the globe connect with leading entertainment, mobile, high speed internet and voice services. We offer entertainment your way on the nation’s best data network.* We’re one of the world’s largest providers of pay TV. We have TV customers in the U.S. and 11 Latin American countries. And we offer the best global coverage of any U.S. wireless provider.** We also help businesses worldwide serve their customers better with our mobility and highly secure cloud solutions. Additional information about AT&T products and services is available at http://about.att.com. Follow our news on Twitter at @ ATT, on Facebook at http://www. facebook.com/att and YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/att. © 2017 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the Globe logo and other marks are trademarks and service marks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective

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owners. *Claim based on the Nielsen Certified Data Network Score. Score includes data reported by wireless consumers in the Nielsen Mobile Insights survey, network measurements from Nielsen Mobile Performance and Nielsen Drive Test Benchmarks for Q2+Q3 2016 across 121 markets. **Global coverage claim based on offering discounted voice and data roaming; LTE roaming; and voice roaming in more countries than any other U.S. based carrier. International service required. Coverage not available in all areas. Coverage may vary per country and be limited/restricted in some countries. From Fortune Magazine, March 1, 2017. ©2017 Time Inc. Fortune and The World’s Most Admired Companies® are registered trademarks of Time Inc. and are used under License. Fortune and Time Inc. are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, AT&T. (Advertising Supplement)

5 ‘FVR XYZ Files’ launched in time for 31st EDSA People Power Revolution anniversary McDonald’s creates re-engineered straws for Shamrock season February 17-23, 2017

www.asianjournal.com

A WEEK before the 31st anniversary of the first day of the EDSA People Power Revolution, the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV)and Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. (MTVi) launched a book on former President Fidel V. Ramos at the Hexagon Lounge, 4th floor, RCBC Plaza, Makati City on February 15. The book, “FVR XYZ Files: An Anthology of Controversies & Issues, Anecdotes & Trivia about Fidel Valdez Ramos,” is a companion book of “A Continuing Voyage for Enduring Peace and Sustainable Development,” which will be launched in March to coincide with RPDEV’s 16th anniversary. Consisting of 372 pages, “FVR XYZ” is divided into three chapters: Trivia, Issues and Controversies, and Anecdotes. The chapter on Trivia contains sections on the different stages in the life of the 12th president of the Philippines — from his childhood, his life

in the uniformed service, his Presidency and on to his role as senior statesman and kuya to over 100 million Filipinos. The chapter gathers bits of interesting information to make Filipinos understand the person who led the country from 1992-1998 to become one of the fastest-growing economies in the region. This enlightening chapter reveals a leader imbued with wit and a sense of humor despite his rigid military training from the U.S. Military Academy. The chapter “Issues and Controversies” presents the real narrative and account behind every issue and controversy thrown at the former president. Issues, long answered during his incumbency but which again came around as critics try to connect him to the failure of those who succeeded him to lead the country, are responded straightforwardly. These include the alleged role of the United States in

the 1986 EDSA People Revolution, the AFP Modernization Program, the Flor Contemplacion case, and the inefficient MRT system, among other issues that impinged upon good governance, peace and order, economic development and social welfare. A collection of anecdotes comprises the last chapter of the book. Former members of the Ramos cabinet, journalists and those who have come in close contact with the former president relate their unique experiences with the man who established and steers the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation after turning over the presidency to his successor. The book is authored by Melandrew T. Velasco, biographer of the Ramos family and president of MTVi. He has authored several books for the Ramos family and FVR’s RPDEV Foundation including Teamwork for Enduring Peace and Sustainable Development, the 10th year commemorative book of RPDEV. According to Velasco, while other former Chiefs of State write their memoirs and then fade into the sunset, it is not so with FVR. “Even in his octogenarian years, FVR has never failed to carry on what he has started, alwaysa good soldier who likes to say that he would rather die serving his country with his boots on rather thansit idly to enjoy his retirement.He continues to inspire and stimulate, stir and enthuse, define and redefine, challenge and defy,” said Velasco.

Kalayaan Incorporated announces 119th Declaration of Independence from Spain Gives respect to our forefathers in their fight for our freedom from 1898 to 1946 FOR over 118 years, the Filipino-American community around the world celebrates June 14 as this was the day in 1898 that Filipinos declared independence from Spain. In the hearts of all Filipinos, this day brings out historical pride and makes the Filipino proud of the sacrifices made by our forefathers to make us independent from Spanish rule. In Southern California many

Fil-Am organizations band together to celebrate this historic date to showcase pride, heritage and culture through the Kalayaan event. For over 16 years, Southern California’s Kalayaan celebration events were done with the cooperation and guidance of the Philippine Consulate General Los Angeles. With the arrival of Honorable Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz, a raised sense of

honor, pride and respect has come to the community and with the Philippine Consulate General Los Angeles in support of the 119th Kalayaan, it will surely showcase the broad range of Filipino culture, heritage and honor for our Freedom. Leading the charge this year for Kalayaan Inc.’s (KI) projects are overall Chairman Jose Relson Continued on Page 6

Limited-edition and utterly frivolous reinvention lets guests enjoy both flavors of the new Chocolate Shamrock Shake (and yes, we truly had engineers design these)

OAK BROOK, IL-– McDonald’s USA changed the world (of shakedrinking) with a limited-edition straw designed by a team of aerospace and robotic engineers. The Chocolate Shamrock Shake, one of four new seasonal McCafé beverages, has dual layers of delicious chocolate shake below Shamrock Shake. The new recipe presented McDonald’s a unique challenge to reinvent the shake experience. To deliver the ideal flavor ratio of 50% chocolate and 50% mint in each sip, versus enjoying each flavor separately with a traditional straw, McDonald’s turned to highlyqualified engineering firms. JACE and NK Labs created the probablymore-revolutionary-than-actuallyneeded Suction Tube for Reverse Axial Withdrawal (the STRAW). The STRAW’s j-shape provides optimal flavor flow dynamics. “It was a puzzling assignment but one with an ambitious goal,” said Seth Newburg, principal engineer and managing partner at NK Labs. “From a physics perspective, it’s actually quite difficult to deliver a proportional amount of both chocolate and mint flavors with each sip. But that’s exactly what we did. It’s a marvel of fluid dynamics. Thanks Fibonacci sequence.” McDonald’s has been raising the bar in a number of ways, from how it operates (now serving All Day Breakfast), what it serves (updated Chicken McNuggets® free of artificial preservatives, flavors and colors) and what it offers (changing the Big Mac by offering new Mac sandwich sizes). The release of the Chocolate Shamrock Shake and the STRAW marks the latest example of how McDonald’s is putting its guests at the center of all that it does. “We’re always listening to what our customers want and reinventing our menu in

whipped topping, and a cherry and it’s a match made in Shamrock heaven. • Shamrock Chocolate Chip Frappé: Made with an indulgent blend of chocolate chips and a hint of coffee, topped with green sprinkles, whipped topping, and tantalizing chocolaty drizzle. • Shamrock Mocha: Our classic Hot Mocha just got minty. Made with sustainably sourced espresso beans from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms, steamed whole or nonfat milk, mint and mocha flavored syrup, and topped with whipped topping and delicious chocolaty drizzle. response,” said Darci Forrest, senior • Shamrock Hot Chocolate: director of menu innovation at Our delicious Hot Chocolate McDonald’s. “And though it might now with cool mint flavor. Made sound silly to some, putting our with steamed whole or nonfat guests first sometimes means milk, mint and mocha flavored re-thinking even the humble syrup, and topped with whipped straw. We reached out to some topping and chocolaty drizzle. of the brightest engineers in the As part of Shamrock season, country and asked for their help to McDonald’s will donate $.25 from create the ultimate shake-drinking each McCafé Shamrock Chocolate experience. beverage purchased to Ronald Due to the STRAW’s unique McDonald House Charities (RMHC) design, only 2,000 were produced during the week of March 11in time for Shamrock season. The 17.The iconic Shamrock Shake STRAW will be available in select has been a key part of fundraising participating restaurants with the for RMHC since 1974 when the purchase of a Chocolate Shamrock first Ronald McDonald House was Shake. Visit McDonald’s Trending opened. Now to learn where and when McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves the lucky few will be distributed. a variety of menu options made And, like the seasonal offering of with quality ingredients to the McCafé Shamrock Chocolate more than 25 million customers offerings, the STRAW is also every day. Nearly 90 percent of available for a limited time. McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants The Chocolate Shamrock are independently owned and Shake is one of four new mint operated by businessmen and and chocolate flavored McCafé women. Customers can now log beverages now available at online for free at approximately McDonald’s locations nationwide 11,500 participating Wi-Fi enabled for a limited time. Those McDonald’s U.S. restaurants. For beverages include: more information, visit www. • Chocolate Shamrock Shake: mcdonalds.com, or follow us Vanilla soft serve and chocolate on Twitter @McDonalds and flavored syrup under the original Facebook www.facebook.com/ mint flavored Shamrock Shake. mcdonalds. Top it off with green sprinkles, (Advertising Supplement)

February 17-23, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

Health@Heart

6

Our food and our body

natural source of isoflavones, phytochemicals that are also found in tofu, vegetables, fruits, PhiliP S. ChuA, nuts, seeds, legumes, some herbs. Md, FACS, FPCS Isoflavones are phytoestrogens, and beneficial to the body when The clamor for a healthier consumed regularly by lowering the lifestyle has transformed society incidence of certain forms of cancer into more conscious, more intelligent, and more discriminating and heart diseases. What is flash pasteurization? consumers of food and food This is a process used in food ingredients. Truth in food labeling is a law that is strictly implemented, “sterilization” to kill food-borne especially in the United States. here pathogens, utilizing 170-180 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 are some of the most frequently seconds. asked questions on this subject. If the label says fat-free, is it Why are some meats really cholesterol-free? irradiated? No, when the food label says Some companies irradiate fat-free, and you see oil in the their meats to prevent food-borne product, it only means the product illnesses. At the legally prescribed has less than one-half gram of fat level, irradiation is effective and per serving. This is in consonance safe. however, some people are with the official FDA labeling uncomfortable about it. In the definition of fat-free. This is the United States, the Radura symbol (international symbol for radiation) reason we should all be familiar with the system. must be on the label of foods that What are trans fats? are irradiated, together with the Adding hydrogen to wording “treated by radiation” or unsaturated vegetable oil results “treated with radiation.” Science in trans fat. The hydrogen crosses has shown over the past several the chemical bond and the decades that the irradiated food liquid oil becomes solid at room items are safe for consumption. temperature, like lard. This is also Does MSG have to be listed found in foods with hydrogenated too? oils and naturally seen in meat and Yes, monosodium glutamate dairy products. food taste enhancer (Vet-Sin) must What is the source of canola be printed on the label of food oil? items containing such ingredient. Originally, canola oil came Some people are allergic to MSG, from Canada, as an altered form and some others may react to it of Rapeseed oil. Canola has less with headache, sensation of chest saturated fats compared to nontightness or and/or warm flushing sensation all over. MSG is commonly virgin olive oil, is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, and is high in used in Chinese restaurants, where monosaturated fats that have been a special request from the diner to proven to lower the bad cholesterol the waiters should preclude its use in the cooking of the food ordered. (LDL, low-density lipoproteins). Virgin olive oil first, and Canola oils How long can an unopened second, are the preferred cooking can of food be stored safely? oil, followed by safflower is next. Canned low acid foods, like The other so-called vegetable or meats, pasta, spinach, corn, can be corn oils are not as healthy. safely stored in a dry, cool, pantry What are essential fatty acids? for two years, while high acid foods These are fatty acids that are (foods packed in vinegar based important for our body but which marinades, fruits, and tomato our body cannot produce, unlike products), one year to 18 months. One caveat: If in doubt, throw it out! fats, cholesterol, and triglycerides which our liver can synthesize. We Do yogurts contain live must, therefore, get our essential cultures? fatty acids from the food we eat. Most yogurts on the market The two types are linolenic acid, an do, in varying amount, but the omeg-3 fatty acid, and linoleic acid, average is about 10 million an omega-6 fatty acid. Safflower, Lactobacillus acidophilus, 10 sunflower and corn are rich in million Bifid cultures, and over 10 linoleic acid, while sardines, salmon, million Lactobacillus bulgaricus albacore tuna, herring, and flaxseed and Streptococcus thermophilus oil have abundant linolenic (omegacultures, per gram. There are now 3 fatty) acids. probiotic capsules in blister packs Is oatmeal really good for us? not requiring refrigeration which One of the healthiest breakfast has 10 Billion L. acidophilus in each foods is oatmeal, better and capsule, to be taken once a day. healthier than eggs and bacon/ Why are soybeans good for ham/sausages, etc. Together with us? fruits in the morning, oatmeal, Soybeans are the richest

Calendar of Events across

like wheat and bran cereals, are health food items that lower our cholesterol, make our bowels regular and reduce the incidence of heart diseases and malignancies, like cancer of the colon. How about the “flake” cereals? The various “flake” cereals (cornflakes, rice flakes, chocoflavored ones) are high in sugars and much less on fiber. These are carbohydrates with high glycemic indices and not recommended. Wheat, bran cereals and oatmeal are the best. And the same thing with wheat bread being better than regular white bread, and brown rice superior to white rice. Is sugar-free food devoid of sugar? The name would make one think so, but, unless the label says “zero” sugar, the product could have sugar in it, in spite of the label. The official FDA rule says if the product contains less than one-half gram sugar per serving, it may be labeled “sugar-free.” What are malitol, sorbitol, xylitol and manitol? These are sugar alcohols (not related to alcoholic drinks), which are used as artificial sweeteners, used by many, especially diabetics. They are absorbed by the body more slowly (lower glycemic index), which is good. They also promote lesser dental carries compared to regular sugar. These are also used in sugar-free chewing gums or mouthwashes, etc. Stevia leaf extract is now the popular choice sugar substitute. Why are non-diet drinks unhealthy? Regular pop beverages are not healthy drinks because they are toxic to the body, besides their high sugar content. They are the worst enemies of overweight people trying to control their poundage. Children are especially advised not to drink pop beverages, not only for its effect on blood sugar and body weight but for its bad effects on their teeth. The global sales of soft drinks have come down, while the sale of sparkling water is spiraling upwards. Indeed, the best beverage is really the healthy and refreshing filtered water.. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

America

F E B R UA RY 1 8

Free parenting class in Eagle Rock, CA Come to a free parenting class in Eagle Rock on Saturday, Feb. 18 at 10 a.m. It will be held at the Eagle Rock Lutheran Church at 5032 Maywood Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90041. To RSVP, please call (323) 304-9898.

Small Business Saturday workshop in Stevenson Ranch, CA

Want to open a business in Los Angeles County but don’t know where to start? Small Business Saturday is for you! The Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) will show you: how to become an entrepreneur; steps to opening a business; where to seek financing for your business; latest information about business taxes; how to obtain a business license; library resources for small businesses and more! Join the DCBA for a workshop on Saturday, Feb. 18 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Stevenson Ranch Library at 25950 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381. The workshop is presented in partnership with Supervisor Kathyrn Barger of the Fifth District. The event is free but space is limited. Registration is requested at http://lacountyptac.ecenterdirect. com/events.

F E B R UA RY 2 1

Civil Liberties under Trump forum in Eagle Rock, CA Hear how the American Civil Liberties Union and allied organizations are fighting back against the administration of President Donald Trump on Tuesday, February 21 from 7 to 9 p.m. in Eagle Rock, CA. Speakers include Tanzila “Taz” Ahmed of 18MillionRising; Betty Hung of Asian Americans Advancing Justice-LA; Sharon Kyle, ACLU SoCal National Board Rep; and Aiha Nguyen, board member of the ACLU-SoCal Pasadena/Foothills Chapter. The event will be held at LA Filipino United Church of Christ at 5080 N. Maywood Ave., Eagle Rock, CA. The event is free and open to the public. Please contact joana.amador@gmail. com or (213) 434-4643.

MARCH 6

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond

Abortion and our throwaway society

Monette AdevA MAglAyA

“All that is necessary for the triumph

The 44th Annual March for Life was held in Washington DC on January 27, 2017, a week after Donald J. Trump and Michael R. Pence were sworn into office as President and Vice President on January 20, 2017. It was a historical turn of events and bodes well for the defense of the unborn. hundreds of thousands marched in the event and were visibly moved by the fact that Vice President Mike Pence at the suggestion of President Trump graced the occasion with a wonderful, prayerful speech. Vice President Mike Pence, a Christian with a deep abiding faith, and Kelly Anne Conway, a Catholic and Senior Counselor to President Trump both spoke at the event. President Trump gave his full support and challenged the liberal media to give the annual event full coverage. As may be expected,only Fox gave the event the coverage it warranted. It was the first time that the highest office holders in the land stood with those who had been fighting the evil of abortion for years. There is light coming out to defeat the darkness. One of the first executive orders President Trump signed was to defund international abortion efforts by Planned Parenthood. Pope Francis has spoken on the issue of abortion. he has broken what many Catholic conservatives quietly observed to be his “silence” on the matter in as many months of his assuming the papacy. Personally, I think the holy Spirit is strong with this Pope and his timing is flawless. In his “State of the World” address directed to diplomats accredited to the Vatican, he said, “It is horrific even to think that there are children, victims of abortion, who will never see the light of day.” It was the pope’s toughest and most forceful stand on this issue. he continued, “Unfortunately, what is thrown away is not only food and dispensable objects, but often human beings themselves, who are discarded as unnecessary.” Pope Francis has voiced what many Christians believe. The gift of life is from God and that LIFe begins at the moment of conception. For many, there can be no equivocation on this matter. There is no wiggle room, no hemming and hawing. You are either for it or against it. Abortion is nothing less than the murder of innocents — a most grievous offense against the holy Spirit from whom all life emanates. It is the duty of all who hold human life sacred to fight for it and uphold moral laws that guarantee the life of future generations. Do not be fooled by the demagoguery of evil when abortion is framed and termed as the dishonest “war on women” or given the disingenuous term

of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

— Edmund Burke

“pro choice.” Do not be fooled by snake oil salesmen and think that Planned Parenthood is a benign organization when it actually promotes abortion in the guise of “good, responsible” parenting. These labels deceive. Let’s call a spade a spade. Prochoice is pro-abortion. Period. No ifs and buts about it. Your choice ends when another defenseless human life is part of the equation. If you didn’t know it yet, there was a war being insidiously waged against all Judaeo-Christian faiths by all means possible in the last 8 years, via legislation, government policies and a leftist, liberal American society and its tools. Thank God the tide is turning when the highest leadership of the land puts his weight behind the case for life, especially that of the unborn. The erosion of our religious liberties has been on full throttle since past leaders, because of political correctness and lack of moral courage, could not give a full throated defense of this basic liberty. Ordinary Christians have been on their knees for a long time and have been fighting back and shoring up the first line of defense for human rights and religious freedom. Thank God for the miracle that is happening these days. God is answering our fervent prayers. On our part, we need to pray even more fervently without ceasing. God chooses people to make his will known. If you are one of them, let God’s Spirit suffuse you to move you in many ways — by fervent, unceasing prayers and fasting, by the printed word or the internet and better yet, to engage actively one-on-one in conversation to fire up family and friends within your daily orbit about the importance of this issue. For those who can and have the time and wherewithal to be on the front lines, there are pro-life brigades that actively discourage women from going through abortion and instead talk them into considering adoption right in front of abortion clinics around the country. Are you a CINO? Refuse to be one. CINO is the acronym for Catholic or Christian In Name Only, just like a few of our elected politicians in the highest levels of power who have repeatedly sacrificed their integrity and perhaps, even their souls, for political gain and expediency. There are well-oiled foundations in conjunction with huge pharmaceutical firms that back Planned Parenthood and abortion globally. Refuse to be intimidated. Our story is still being written. Spoiler alert: in the end, GOD WINS, GOOD WINS.

From Page 5 Banas and overall Vice-Chair Susan Dilkes. Banas has announced that in this year’s signature celebration, the Kalayaan Gala Ball, their pride for KI will be showcased through Southern Philippine Visayan culture and heritage. Also, throughout the year, KI will perform projects that will benefit the community and with this year being the 75th Anniversary of World War II in the Philippines, the organization will work closely with the community to honor Filipino and American Soldiers for sacrificing their youthful years to defend the Philippines from an invading country. In an upcoming event on Sunday February 19, KI is having a “Dance for Freedom” fundraiser to be able to host World War II Veterans in a “Thank You and Recognition” luncheon in April. The fundraiser will be at

KI with Philippine Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz

Stardancers, at 2333 Lake Avenue, Altadena, CA. The public is invited to join (with cost). The Kalayaan Inc. executive Officers for 2017 are: Jose Relson Banas, Chairman Susan Dilkes, Vice Chairman Gil Mislang, Board Secretary

Come see Susan Quimpo, one of the authors of “Subversive Lives” on Monday, March 6 at the Free Public Library of Hasbrouck Heights from 6 to 8 p.m. “Subversive Lives” is a memoir by eight siblings (plus one by marriage) who dedicated themselves to the anti-Marcos resistance in the Philippines. Quimpo will talk about her personal experience during the Marcos years. Books will be available for sale. A book signing will follow after the talk. The Free Public Library of Hasbrouck Heights is located at 320 Boulevard, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604.

MARCH 11

dinner-dance in Brea, CA

The City of San Fernando La Union Association (CSFLU) will hold its annual dinnerdance at the Embassy Suites in Brea, CA on March 11. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa & The Midnight Motion Band. For more information, please call Vangie So, president of the association at (626) 485-3110.

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com

Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

Kalayaan Incorporated announces...

Talk and book signing with Susan Quimpo, author of “Subversive Lives” in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey

JA N UA RY 24 CSFLU to hold

Catholicism is not a cafeteria religion where we can choose only those tenets that are convenient for us. The moral issue of abortion far transcends any earthly concerns. The battered economy, the malingering war on terror, eroded national security, weakened global standing, taxes, energy independence, health care— all these are important issues of our time. But as history will attest, all these trials and tribulations will be overcome in due season. Our problems in the material world will find resolution and eventually come to pass. Consider the dark times a period of testing. God wants to see where his people stand on this crucial matter. God wants to see if we are still his people. Sometimes God gives us seasons of darkness and times of trials and tribulations so that we can see and appreciate the light. Across the country, millions are silently bending their knees in prayer and humble supplication. True Christians know there is no force more powerful on earth than humble prayer. When we choose to stand with God, the darkness lifts and we become thankful for light and life when dawn breaks. We begin to see with clear eyes the abundant gifts that have been given to us so generously by a loving God. We begin to grow within us grateful, humble hearts. We begin to see and feel God’s love. We begin to live humbly as testaments of that love to our fellow human beings. A crisis of faith of this magnitude knocks us out of our high horse of complacency. We find out who we really are, what we are made of and in humbly seeking God’s help and with the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, we find the courage to take a stand. Times like these are a mirror. They reveal us to ourselves, to our brethren and to God. The issue of abortion is fundamental to our humanity and our connection to divinity. Our decision to take it down or uphold it will reverberate for centuries beyond our time. Abortion strikes at the root of our essence as human beings. It is evil. Without action on our parts to confront this evil, it will prevail. As edmund Burke once said, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” Continue to fight for the unborn — the most defenseless of all creatures, a call to preserve the life of thinking, feeling, spiritual being in human form. ***

The 2017 Kalayaan Inc. Board and Executive Officers

Lynda Joco, Asst. Secretary Lanie Berrei, Treasurer Marilou Perez, Asst. Treasurer erlinda Granada-Sabah, Auditor Carmelita Paule, Asst. Auditor Mary Lyn Sanga, P.R.O. ed Anciano, P.R.O.

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February 17-23, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

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